Why has it been necessary to remove nearly all the grass on Orford Park?
There has to be a change in the levels of soil to create a new area where the water would gather in the event of a flood.
Why are there so many barriers/fencing and what is their purpose?
Health & Safety regulations demand that the works are segregated for the health and safety of the general public. It is therefore important that it is not tampered with as there is a risk of serious injury should individuals trespass on the site.
Why is the pond being moved?
The pond has been moved following consultation with residents and park users who felt that moving it away from the play area would make it safer for children
Why are very large loads of topsoil being put on site, then not being used leading to pools of water forming around them?
The topsoil is stored in stockpiles after being treated to improve its quality. It will then be used throughout the site as part of the landscaping works.
Why do we have to have a flood precaution?
These measures have to be created since the hub building and car parking are being built on an existing flood plain so the Environment Agency require an alternative flood plain to be created.
Why are there big gaps under the fence on the dog walking area that dogs can escape through?
The big gaps will be filled in with topsoil once all the fencing is compete.
Will the project create new job vacancies for local people, if so, when will these jobs be advertised, or will staff currently employed by the council be redeployed into these jobs?
There will be a small number of new jobs created during construction and these will be advertised through job Centre plus and Connexions. We will also be making arrangements to provide information about job vacancies via bluetooth and local bulletins. The commercial development is projected to create some 50 jobs and these will be available to local people and publicised as per the construction jobs
Will there be good sports facilities for younger children (ages 3 -10) when the project is finished?
The facilities will have a range of sport and leisure facilities for all ages. The building has pools, sports hall, activity studios as well as a library and community spaces. Programmes will be developed over the months leading up to the opening and we would welcome your views on the type of activities we should provide. The building also has a crèche. Outside there is the new play area and we are intending to develop interesting spaces for children to explore.
Will there be discounts for the local residents to use the project facilities?
There will be discounts for local people in line with fees and charges at the existing Fordton Centre. New affordable charges have just been introduced
Will there be any improvements to the road system between Birchwood Express Way and Orford, as surely the project is going to have an impact on the connecting roads?
There are plans for upgrades to the A49 and Long Lane junction but there are no plans for highway improvements on the Birchwood Express Way
Are there any plans to improve safety or design a through road, at the old railway line and the Ryfields village area?
There are no plans for this route connected to the Orford Park development
Will there be any provision for Rugby pitches on the new site, as I can see areas for football and Tennis but not Rugby?
There will be at least 2 rugby pitches on the site
What facilities will be provided in the Orford Park Project for older people, to ensure they are included in activities to improve their mobility, general good health and to prevent social exclusion?
The facilities will include community rooms where it is planned to provide a range of activities for older people. The pools, activity studios and gym are all fully accessible and there will be qualified staff to assist users to take part in activities